Scott Linden Outdoors

I’m not the first to say the only reason puppies live to dog-hood is they are so cute. In their own way, each is a hellion – for a moment here, a half hour there. Then, they do something so adorable – or just sit there cocking their head and gazing with those big wondrous eyes – and all is forgiven.

I went in with both eyes open, so am not griping, just making a statement. And for every felony or misdemeanor there are golden moments of pure delight with Flick. He is bolder in shallow water, he picks up pigeons and struts, he plays well with other pups and the nice older dog in class, is coming when called 80 percent of the time. It is a magical time and as so many trainers smarter than me have suggested, the prime time for learning all the good stuff.

There is only one puppyhood issued per dog, and a young skull full of mush is best shaped during these early days. I need immediate gratification, and on the basics with Flick I see results daily. It’s a good motivator.

And the puppy alarm clock didn’t ring until 6:07 a.m. this morning. Now that’s adorable.